NCJ Number
205358
Date Published
April 2004
Length
16 pages
Annotation
After reviewing the difficulties of compiling complete and accurate data on DUI (driving under the influence) prevalence, crashes, and drivers, this report presents the available DUI data for the Nation as a whole and for Illinois, followed by recommendations for DUI data collection, prevention efforts, and research.
Abstract
Although data on actual long-term and/or comparative rates of DUI incidents can be elusive, data from both national agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and State agencies such as the Illinois Department of Transportation and Secretary of State provide some information. At the national level, more recent estimates indicate someone is killed in an alcohol-related crash every 32 minutes, and 3 in 10 Americans will be involved in alcohol-related crashes at some time in their lives. Motor vehicle crashes were the leading cause of death for persons ages 1-34 in 1999 and 2000. According to NHTSA, 24 percent of all male drivers involved in fatal crashes were intoxicated, compared to 13 percent of all female drivers involved in fatal crashes. Native-Americans have the highest proportion of alcohol-related fatalities within any racial or ethnic group, followed by Mexican-Americans. In 2000, drivers aged 21-24 were the largest proportion of drivers with a BAC of .10 or greater, followed closely by drivers ages 25-29. In Illinois, motor vehicle accidents were the leading cause of death from 1990-2000 for people ages 1-34. Deaths from alcohol-related crashes composed a large proportion of these deaths. In 2001, 84 percent of DUI arrests in Illinois were men. This report provides information on DUI arrest rates, DUI and probation, and DUI sentencing. One recommendation designed to better assess the extent and nature of the DUI problem at the national, State, and local levels is to implement more consistent data-keeping practices between agencies and across time. It is also recommended that more detailed statistics be collected on the demographics of persons at risk for or involved in DUI behavior. Recommendations for DUI prevention include the use of sobriety check points, zero tolerance laws, and administrative license revocation. Research recommendations include the assessment of the extent and effectiveness of current DUI prevention messages and efforts. 2 tables, 5 figures, and 44 references